Tempe, AZ vs Richmond, CA: 120 vs 161

$1,623/mo ↓ 14%

Median Rent

$1,895/mo ↑ 17%

$77,643/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$90,038/yr ↑ 16%

$421,900 ↓ 35%

Home Value

$650,100 ↑ 54%

$1,554/mo ↓ 23%

Owner Costs

$2,015/mo ↑ 30%

186,419

Population

115,396

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Richmond, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 161 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $272/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $3,264/year.

Median household income is $12,395/year higher in Richmond. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $650,100 in Richmond.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Tempe slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Richmond — common questions

Is Tempe or Richmond cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 161 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Richmond?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Richmond it's $1,895/month — a difference of $272/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Richmond?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $90,038 in Richmond. Median household income is $12,395/year higher in Richmond.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and California?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Richmond?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Richmond has a cost index of 161 with rent of $1,895/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tempe, AZ vs Richmond, CA (2026)

Tempe

Richmond

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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